U.S. patent application number 16/678178 was filed with the patent office on 2020-05-14 for method for providing autofill function and electronic device including the same.
The applicant listed for this patent is Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Yoonjeong CHOI, Taeho HA, Bunam JEON, Kyungtae KIM, Seonho LEE, Hosung YOU.
Application Number | 20200151315 16/678178 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 70550549 |
Filed Date | 2020-05-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200151315 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LEE; Seonho ; et
al. |
May 14, 2020 |
METHOD FOR PROVIDING AUTOFILL FUNCTION AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE
INCLUDING THE SAME
Abstract
An electronic device and method are disclosed, the method
including a communication circuitry, a memory storing an
application, a display, and a processor operatively connected with
the communication circuitry, the memory, and the display. The
processor executes the method, including: receiving a request to
execute the application, outputting an information input screen
relevant to executing the application on the display based on the
request, receiving at least one piece of input information to be
entered into the information input screen, from a specific external
electronic device via the communication circuitry, and
automatically entering the at least one piece of input information
into the information input screen.
Inventors: |
LEE; Seonho; (Gyeonggi-do,
KR) ; KIM; Kyungtae; (Gyeonggi-do, KR) ; YOU;
Hosung; (Gyeonggi-do, KR) ; JEON; Bunam;
(Gyeonggi-do, KR) ; CHOI; Yoonjeong; (Gyeonggi-do,
KR) ; HA; Taeho; (Gyeonggi-do, KR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. |
Gyeonggi-do |
|
KR |
|
|
Family ID: |
70550549 |
Appl. No.: |
16/678178 |
Filed: |
November 8, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 21/35 20130101;
G06F 3/04842 20130101; G06F 21/44 20130101; G06F 21/43 20130101;
G06F 21/32 20130101; G06F 40/174 20200101; G06F 3/04883 20130101;
G06F 21/34 20130101; G06F 21/83 20130101; G06F 21/305 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 21/35 20060101
G06F021/35; G06F 17/24 20060101 G06F017/24; G06F 3/0488 20060101
G06F003/0488; G06F 21/43 20060101 G06F021/43; G06F 21/32 20060101
G06F021/32; G06F 21/44 20060101 G06F021/44 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 9, 2018 |
KR |
10-2018-0136987 |
Claims
1. An electronic device, comprising: a communication circuitry; a
memory storing an application; a display; and a processor
operatively connected with the communication circuitry, the memory,
and the display, wherein the memory includes instructions that,
when executed, cause the processor to: receive a request to execute
the application; output an information input screen relevant to
executing the application on the display based on the request;
receive at least one piece of input information to be entered into
the information input screen, from a specific external electronic
device via the communication circuitry; and automatically enter the
at least one piece of input information into the information input
screen.
2. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the information input
screen includes an authentication screen that secures access to the
application.
3. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein the input information
includes authentication information utilized to authenticate a user
for access to the application.
4. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the processor is
configured to: access an input information transmission/reception
history stored in the memory to identify one or more external
electronic devices registered in the input information
transmission/reception history; and transmit a request message
requesting the input information to the identified one or more
external electronic devices including the specific external
electronic device.
5. The electronic device of claim 4, wherein the input information
transmission/reception history includes identification of a second
external device that previously provided the input information for
the application, and wherein the request message is transmitted to
the second external device based on the identification.
6. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the processor is
configured to: access an input information transmission/reception
history stored in the memory to output a list of one or more
external electronic devices registered in the input information
transmission/reception history on the display; and when displaying
the list, visually distinguish the specific external electronic
device from other items in the list based on detecting that the
specific external electronic device previously transmitted and/or
received the input information relevant to the application.
7. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the processor is
configured to: scan for discoverable external electronic devices
using the communication circuitry which are communicatively
connectable and/or presently connected to the electronic device;
detect the discoverable one or more external electronic devices by
the scan; and transmit a request message requesting the input
information to the detected discoverable one or more external
devices including the specific external electronic device.
8. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the processor is
configured to: broadcast a request message requesting the input
information using the communication circuitry.
9. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the processor is
configured to: receive a plurality of pieces of input information
from a plurality of external electronic devices using the
communication circuitry, respectively; and output a list displaying
the plurality of pieces of input information allowing selection of
one or more pieces of input information.
10. The electronic device of claim 9, wherein each piece of input
information is visually displayed in the list using at least one of
an image or a text.
11. A method for an electronic device, the method comprising:
receiving, by a processor, a request to execute an application;
outputting an information input screen relevant to executing the
application on a display based on the request; transmitting a
request message requesting at least one piece of input information
for entry into the information input screen, from a specific
external electronic device using a communication circuitry, and
receiving a response message including the at least one piece of
input information from the specific external electronic device; and
automatically entering the at least one piece of input information
into the information input screen.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the information input screen
includes an authentication screen that secures access to the
application.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein the input information includes
authentication information utilized to authenticate a user for
access to the application.
14. The method of claim 11, further comprising: accessing an input
information transmission/reception history stored in a memory to
identify one or more external electronic devices registered in the
input information transmission/reception history; and transmitting
a request message requesting the input information to the
identified one or more external electronic devices.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the input information
transmission/reception history includes identification of a second
external device that previously provided the input information for
the application, and wherein the request message is transmitted to
the second external device based on the identification.
16. The method of claim 11, further comprising: accessing an input
information transmission/reception history stored in a memory to
output a list of one or more external electronic devices registered
in the input information transmission/reception history on the
display; and when displaying the list, visually distinguishing the
specific external electronic device from other items in the list
based on detecting that the specific external electronic device
previously transmitted and/or received the input information
relevant to the application.
17. The method of claim 11, further comprising: scanning for
discoverable external electronic devices using the communication
circuitry which are communicatively connectable and/or presently
connected to the electronic device; and detecting the discoverable
one or more external electronic devices by the scan, wherein the
request message requesting the input information is transmitted to
the detected discoverable one or more external devices including
the specific external electronic device.
18. The method of claim 11, further comprising: broadcasting a
request message requesting the input information using the
communication circuitry.
19. The method of claim 11, further comprising: receiving a
plurality of pieces of input information from a plurality of
external electronic devices using the communication circuitry,
respectively; and outputting a list displaying the plurality of
pieces of input information allowing selection of one or more
pieces of input information.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein each piece of input information
is visually displayed in the list using at least one of an image or
a text.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application is based on and claims priority under 35
U.S.C. .sctn. 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2018-0136987,
filed on Nov. 9, 2018, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office,
the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
1. Technical Field
[0002] The disclosure relates to the access of functions in an
electronic device, and, more particularly, to an autofill function
for entering authentication information in an electronic
device.
2. Description of Related Art
[0003] Recently, electronic devices have advanced and are now
capable of supporting a variety of services. For example,
televisions (TVs) are capable of connecting to the Internet to
support user search functions and streaming multimedia playback,
beyond the traditional functions of receiving and outputting
broadcast signals. Furthermore, large screen mobile electronic
devices have advanced and can now provide various application-based
user functions based on wireless communication.
[0004] The above information is presented as background information
only to assist with an understanding of the disclosure. No
determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to
whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with
regard to the disclosure.
SUMMARY
[0005] An electronic device, such as TV, generally supports inputs
through user manipulation of a remote control, and more rarely, a
touch screen function. Accordingly, a user typically enters
information using the remote control or the touch screen. In this
operation, if a user is unfamiliar with the remote control or the
touch screen, they may feel inconvenience when entering
information. To solve this problem, information stored in memory of
the TV may be utilized. However, when information is stored in an
electronic device, and the electronic device is used by a plurality
of users, the information of one user may be mixed with information
of another user. When the desired information pertains to secure
access and authentication information, a security problem is
introduced by the comingling of this information.
[0006] Aspects of the disclosure are to address at least the
above-mentioned problems and/or disadvantages and to provide at
least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the
disclosure is to provide an autofill function providing method for
processing information entry performed in a first electronic device
with information previously stored in a second electronic device or
supporting information entry using an input device provided in the
second electronic device, and an electronic device supporting the
method.
[0007] In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an
electronic device includes a communication circuitry, a memory
storing an application, a display, and a processor operatively
connected with the communication circuitry, the memory, and the
display, wherein the memory includes instructions that, when
executed, cause the processor to: receive a request to execute the
application, output an information input screen relevant to
executing the application on the display based on the request,
receive at least one piece of input information to be entered into
the information input screen, from a specific external electronic
device via the communication circuitry, and automatically enter the
at least one piece of input information into the information input
screen.
[0008] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a
method for an electronic device is disclosed, including: receiving,
by a processor, a request to execute an application, outputting an
information input screen relevant to executing the application on a
display based on the request, transmitting a request message
requesting at least one piece of input information for entry into
the information input screen, from a specific external electronic
device using a communication circuitry, and receiving a response
message including the at least one piece of input information from
the external electronic device, automatically entering the at least
one piece of input information into the information input
screen.
[0009] Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the
disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from
the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction
with the annexed drawings, discloses certain embodiments of the
disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of
certain embodiments of the disclosure will be more apparent from
the following description taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a view illustrating an example of a configuration
of a system operated in an autofill function support environment
according to certain embodiments;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a view illustrating an example of components
included in electronic devices included in the autofill function
support environment according to certain embodiments;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a view illustrating an example of a signal flow
between components of the system associated with providing an
autofill function according to certain embodiments;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a view illustrating another example of a signal
flow between components of the system associated with providing an
autofill function according to certain embodiments;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a view illustrating an example of an operating
method of a first electronic device related to an autofill function
according to certain embodiments;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a view illustrating an example of an operating
method of a second electronic device related to an autofill
function according to certain embodiments;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a view illustrating an example of a screen
interface related to an autofill function according to certain
embodiments;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a view illustrating another example of a screen
interface related to an autofill function according to certain
embodiments;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a view illustrating another example of an
environment to which an autofill function is applied according to
certain embodiments; and
[0020] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device
1001 in a network environment 1000 according to certain
embodiments.
[0021] With regard to the description of the drawings, identical or
similar reference numerals may be used to refer to identical or
similar components.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] Hereinafter, certain embodiments of the disclosure will be
described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However,
those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that
modification, equivalent, and/or alternative on the certain
embodiments described herein can be variously made without
departing from the disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 1 is a view illustrating an example of a configuration
of a system operated in an autofill function support environment
according to certain embodiments.
[0024] Referring to FIG. 1, a system operating in an autofill
function support environment 10, according to an embodiment of the
disclosure, may include a first electronic device 100 executing a
specific app and at least one second electronic device (e.g., 201
or 202) (or, at least one external electronic device) that provides
input information relevant to operation of the app in the first
electronic device 100.
[0025] In an embodiment, the first electronic device 100 may store
at least one app to enable the execution of the specific app and
may output a screen according to the execution of the app. The
execution of the app may include, for example, an operation
utilizing the input information. The first electronic device 100
may establish a communication channel with a second electronic
device 200 and may obtain, from the second electronic device 200,
the input information according to the execution of the app. The
first electronic device 100 may enter the input information, which
is obtained without a separate user input, based on an autofill
function to perform application of the app (e.g., perform user
authentication according to application of authentication
information) and may output, on a display, an app operation screen
according to the application of the input information. For example,
the first electronic device 100 may transmit, to the second
electronic device 200, at least one of identification information
of the app requested to be executed or an input screen utilizing
the application of the input information and may request the input
information to be applied to the corresponding app from the second
electronic device 200. In an embodiment, after the application of
the input information, the first electronic device 100 may delete
the received input information to prevent another user from using
the input information (e.g., authentication information) that the
second electronic device 200 provides in relation to the operation
of the app in the first electronic device 100. According to certain
embodiments, in the case where there is a history of having
connected with a plurality of second electronic devices 200, the
first electronic device 100 may store input information for each of
the second electronic devices 200, and when a specific second
electronic device 200 is connected to the first electronic device
100, the first electronic device 100 may search for the input
information corresponding to the relevant second electronic device
200 or may use the input information as autofill information. In
this regard, the first electronic device 100 may store the input
information relevant to the second electronic devices 200 in a
security memory area and may use the input information stored in
the security memory area (e.g., the input information relevant to
the second electronic device 200 currently connected to the first
electronic device 100), by using the connection of the specific
second electronic device 200 as a trigger signal. In the case where
a plurality of pieces of input information are stored in the
security memory area to a specified level or higher, the first
electronic device 100 may delete the plurality of pieces of input
information, based on the order in which the plurality of pieces of
input information are stored or the number of times that the
plurality of pieces of input information are used. For example, the
first electronic device 100 may be an IPTV, a TV having an input
function, or an electronic device such as a personal computer (PC),
a tablet PC, a kind of pad, a portable terminal, or a
smartphone.
[0026] The second electronic device 200 may include one or more
electronic devices that establish a communication channel with the
first electronic device 100. Although two second electronic devices
are illustrated in FIG. 1, the disclosure is not limited thereto.
For example, three or more second electronic devices may be
provided. The second electronic device 200 may be an electronic
device that stores input information entered by a user. For
example, the second electronic device 200 may be at least one of a
smartphone, a wearable electronic device, a slate PC, an electronic
device of a pad type, or a smart audio device (e.g., a device that
collects a user's voice input and executes an app according to the
voice input). The second electronic device 200 may receive a
request for input information from the first electronic device 100.
The second electronic device 200 may provide specified input
information to the first electronic device 100 in response to the
request for the input information. In this operation, the second
electronic device 200 may output a confirmation screen relating to
the transmission of the input information and may transmit the
input information to the first electronic device 100 when a user
input occurs. Alternatively, the second electronic device 200 may
automatically transmit the input information to the first
electronic device 100 according to a previous history. According to
certain embodiments, the second electronic device 200 may transmit
the input information and app identification information, as a push
message, to the first electronic device 100. In this case, the
first electronic device 100 may operate the autofill function in a
process of applying the received input information to an app in
response to a request of the second electronic device 200. The
second electronic device 200 may be an electronic device of the
same type as, or a different type from, the first electronic device
100. For example, to store data relevant to the autofill function
and provide the data to the first electronic device 100, the second
electronic device 200 may be an IPTV including a memory,
communication circuitry, and a process, a TV having an input
function, or an electronic device such as a PC, a tablet PC, a kind
of pad, a portable terminal, or a smartphone.
[0027] Even though input information is not directly entered, the
autofill function support environment 10 according to certain
embodiments may obtain input information entered into another
electronic device located nearby, may enter the input information
using the autofill function, and may process application of the
input information. Accordingly, the first electronic device 100
according to certain embodiments may more rapidly and conveniently
perform information entry and may support operation of an app
according to the corresponding information entry.
[0028] FIG. 2 is a view illustrating an example of components
included in the electronic devices included in the autofill
function support environment according to certain embodiments.
[0029] Referring to FIG. 2, the first electronic device 100 may
include at least one of first communication circuitry 110, a first
input device 120, a first memory 140, a first display 150, or a
first processor 160. In an embodiment, the first electronic device
100 may further include communication circuitry connected with an
external network in relation to execution of a specific app. For
example, the first electronic device 100 may further include an
Internet communication module, a mobile communication module, or a
5G communication module that is capable of connecting to an
Internet network.
[0030] According to an embodiment, the first communication
circuitry 110 may support a communication function of the first
electronic device 100. The first communication circuitry 110 may
include at least one of, for example, Internet network
communication circuitry for Internet network access, broadcast
receiving circuitry for receiving a broadcast, or mobile
communication circuitry associated with supporting a mobile
communication function, and/or short-range communication circuitry
for establishing a communication channel with the second electronic
device 200. The first communication circuitry 110 may be used to
transmit, to the second electronic device 200, app identification
information and a message for requesting input information (e.g.,
authentication information) and receive a response according to the
transmission of the app identification information and the message.
For example, the first communication circuitry 110 may include
circuitry that directly performs communication without a repeater
such as Bluetooth, WiFi direct, or the like. According to an
embodiment, the first communication circuitry 110 may include a
WiFi communication module (or circuitry) for Internet network
access and/or a WiFi direct communication module (or a Bluetooth
communication module) for transmitting and receiving the input
information.
[0031] According to an embodiment, the first input device 120 may
include a device for receiving a user input in relation to
operation of a function of the first electronic device 100. For
example, in the case where the first display 150 is a touch screen
that supports a touch function, the first input device 120 may
include the first display 150 as an input device. According to
certain embodiments, the first input device 120 may include a
microphone and voice recognition circuitry (or module) for
analyzing a user's voice collected through the microphone and
processing the analyzed voice as an instruction. In another
example, the first input device 120 may include an electronic pen
and an electromagnetic induction panel that supports operation of
the electronic pen. In another example, the first input device 120
may include a remote controller that enables an input from a long
distance and a receiver that receives and processes a signal
transmitted from the remote controller. As described above, the
first input device 120 in the first electronic device 100 may
include at least one of various types or kinds of devices.
[0032] According to an embodiment, the first input device 120 may
receive an input signal for executing at least one app stored in
the first memory 140. Alternatively, the first input device 120 may
receive an input signal for executing at least one app designed to
output, on the first electronic device 100, an execution screen
executed in a specific server. When the corresponding input signal
occurs, the first input device 120 may request the first processor
160 to execute the app.
[0033] The first input device 120 may receive a user input relevant
to an input of the executed app. For example, the first input
device 120 may receive a user input for selecting any one of a
plurality of pieces of information (e.g., a plurality of pieces of
identification information of the second electronic devices) that
correspond to a plurality of pieces of input information. In
another example, the first input device 120 may receive a user
input for requesting a change in at least part of selected input
information.
[0034] In an embodiment, the first memory 140 may store an
operating system relevant to operation of the first electronic
device 100 and/or at least one app. In another example, the first
memory 140 may temporarily store input information received from at
least one second electronic device 200 and/or identification
information of each electronic device. In another example, the
first memory 140 may store screen information according to
execution of a specific app and may provide the screen information
to the first display 150 in response to control of the first
processor 160. According to certain embodiments, the first memory
140, although not storing input information, may store
identification information of at least one second electronic device
200 that transmits and receives the input information, or history
management information of the at least one second electronic device
200.
[0035] The first display 150 may output at least one screen
relevant to operation of the first electronic device 100. The first
display 150 may include a touch function. In this case, the first
display 150 may operate as the first input device 120. The first
display 150 may output a selection screen for selecting at least
one app stored in the first memory 140. Alternatively, the first
display 150 may output a selection screen for selecting a broadcast
receiving channel.
[0036] According to an embodiment, the first display 150 may output
a login screen that utilizes input information in relation to
execution of a specific app. For example, the login screen may be
output at the time of execution of at least one app, access to a
specific server, or execution of a specific app of the first
electronic device 100 or approach to a memory area (e.g., a
security memory area).
[0037] According to an embodiment, the first display 150 may output
a list that includes information representing connection states
with one or more second electronic devices 200, information
representing receipt of input information from the second
electronic devices 200, and/or identification information of the
second electronic devices 200 that corresponds to the received
input information. When application of input information is
completed according to selection or application of specific input
information, the first display 150 may output a screen of an app
relevant to the application of the input information (e.g., an app
execution screen after completion of authentication) according to
the completion of the application of the input information.
[0038] According to an embodiment, a request for input information
may be periodically performed. Accordingly, the first electronic
device 100 may periodically receive the input information from a
specified second electronic device 200 and may perform information
entry through the autofill function. In this operation, in the case
where the input information is authentication information according
to an embodiment, the first display 150 may output a guide message
regarding completion of user authentication every time the user
authentication is performed based on the received authentication
information, or may output a guide message according to completion
of user authentication when the user authentication is performed
for the first time, and may output no guide message regarding
completion of the next user authentication. In the case where the
periodically performed user authentication is not processed (e.g.,
a communication channel between the first electronic device 100 and
the second electronic device 200 is deactivated), the first display
150 may output a screen according to the authentication failure. In
the case of the authentication failure, the app may be temporarily
stopped or ended, and the first display 150 may output a screen
(e.g., an exit screen or a contents output stop screen) according
to the authentication failure.
[0039] According to an embodiment, the first processor 160 may
control transfer and processing of a signal, or data access, which
is relevant to operation of the first electronic device 100. The
first processor 160, for example, may output a list (or icons) of
apps stored in the first memory 140 in response to a user input, or
may output at least one app list (or icons) that the first
electronic device 100 provides. When an app utilizing an autofill
function for information entry is selected, the first processor 160
may output a screen relevant to the information entry on the first
display 150.
[0040] According to an embodiment, the first processor 160 may
transmit a message to request input information according to
specified scheduling information or in response to a user input.
According to an embodiment, the first processor 160 may output the
input information request message in the manner of broadcast. In
another example, the first processor 160 may perform scanning using
short-range communication circuitry and may transmit the input
information request message to at least one second electronic
device 200 found according to the scanning. According to certain
embodiments, the first processor 160 may identify a history of
transmission and reception of input information and may transmit
the input information request message to the second electronic
device 200 that has a history of having transmitted and received
the input information. According to certain embodiments, the first
processor 160 may transmit the input information request message to
the second electronic device 200 that has a recent input
information transmission/reception history or the second electronic
device 200 that has the largest number of histories.
[0041] According to an embodiment, when receiving input information
from one or more second electronic devices 200, the first processor
160 may generate a list based on the received input information and
may output the list on the first display 150. In the output
operation, the first processor 160 may generate and output a list
of identification information of the second electronic devices 200
that corresponds to the input information. The first processor 160,
after outputting the list, may enter input information selected by
a user input as login information. For example, a user may perform
a user input to select specific identification information from the
identification information of the second electronic devices 200.
When receiving the user input for selecting the specific
identification information from the first input device 120, the
first processor 160 may automatically enter the input information
corresponding to the relevant identification information as input
information. According to certain embodiments, the first processor
160 may automatically select input information provided by a
specified second electronic from the received input information and
may apply the selected input information to an input screen. For
example, the first processor 160 may automatically enter the input
information on a login screen according to the autofill
function.
[0042] According to an embodiment, when a user input for requesting
confirmation of the application of the input information occurs
after the automatic input information entry, the first processor
160 may perform application of the input information (e.g.,
authentication). In another example, after the automatic input
information entry, the first processor 160 may automatically
process application of the input information to an app. For
example, in the case where the input information is authentication
information, the first processor 160 may transmit the received
authentication information to a server relevant to the
corresponding app and may request confirmation of authentication.
In another example, the first processor 160 may compare information
previously stored in the first memory 140 and the currently entered
input information and may perform authentication according to the
comparison result.
[0043] When the application of the input information to the app is
normally performed, the first processor 160 may execute the
corresponding app and may output a screen according to the
execution of the app on the first display 150. In the case where
the application of the input information to the app (e.g.,
authentication) fails, the first processor 160 may output a guide
message relevant to the failure in the application of the input
information.
[0044] According to an embodiment, in the above-described
operation, the first processor 160 may display the second
electronic devices capable of being connected at present, in
relation to the transmission of the input information request
message. In another example, the first processor 160 may
differently output an electronic device having a previous
connection history and an electronic device having no connection
history, among the devices capable of being connected. According to
certain embodiments, the first processor 160 may differently
display an item for a second electronic device having input
information utilized for operation of the autofill function of the
currently running app and an item for another electronic device.
For example, the first processor 160 may highlight an item for a
second electronic device having input information that is to be
applied to an app. In this regard, in the case where an application
operation (e.g., an authentication operation) is normally performed
in app execution request reception and application operations, the
first electronic device 100 may map, store, and manage
identification information of the corresponding second electronic
device and app identification information together. In the case
where a second electronic device having a previous history in
relation to operation of the autofill function of the currently
running app is able to be connected, the first processor 160 may
automatically transmit an input information request message to the
second electronic device having the previous history.
[0045] According to certain embodiments, in the case where the
second electronic device having the previous history in relation to
the operation of the autofill function of the currently running app
is not connected, the first processor 160 may output a guide
message (e.g., an audio guide sound, or a guide text or image) to
request connection. In the case where the second electronic device
200 enters within a specified distance and establishes a
short-range communication channel, the first processor 160 may
automatically transmit an input information request message and may
receive input information. In this regard, after outputting the
connection request guide message, the first processor 160 may
maintain a communication standby state for connection for a
specified period of time, or may transmit a communication
connection request signal. The input information request message
may include, for example, an app ID or uniform resource locator
(URL) information. When receiving encrypted input information from
the second electronic device 200, the first processor 160 may
decode the encrypted input information and may perform user
authentication based on the decoded input information.
[0046] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 200
may include second communication circuitry 210, a second input
device 220, a second memory 240, a second display 250, a sensor
270, and a second processor 260. Additionally or alternatively, the
second electronic device 200 may further include a speaker for
outputting an audio signal and a microphone for collecting an audio
signal.
[0047] According to an embodiment, the second communication
circuitry 210 may establish a communication channel in relation to
a communication function of the second electronic device 200. For
example, the second communication circuitry 210 may include a
short-range communication module for establishing a communication
channel with the first electronic device 100 and a long-range
communication module for connecting to a server through a network.
The long-range communication module may include, for example,
communication circuitry for connecting to a mobile communication
network or communication circuitry for connecting to an Internet
network. The second communication circuitry 210 may connect to a
specific server in response to user control or may connect to the
server in response to a request for execution of an app, and may
identify input information requested by the server and may receive
data relevant to a service (e.g., a data service or an audio
service) that the corresponding server provides. The second
communication circuitry 210 may maintain a communication standby
state to establish a communication channel with the first
electronic device 100. When receiving a communication connection
request message from the first electronic device 100, the second
communication circuitry 210 may establish a communication channel
with the first electronic device 100. In another example, the
second communication circuitry 210 may transmit a communication
connection request message for communication connection with the
first electronic device 100 in the communication standby state in
response to user control and may establish a communication channel
with the first electronic device 100.
[0048] According to an embodiment, the second input device 220 may
include a component for generating an input signal of the second
electronic device 200. For example, the second input device 220 may
include various means such as a physical button, a touch screen, or
a sound input device. The second input device 220 may generate an
input signal relevant to communication connection with the first
electronic device 100 or an input signal relevant to transmission
of input information according to a user operation and may transfer
the generated input signal to the second processor 260.
[0049] According to an embodiment, the second memory 240 may store
an operating system relevant to operation of the second electronic
device 200 and/or at least one app. According to certain
embodiments, the second memory 240 may store autofill information
241. The autofill information 241 may include identification
information of an app and input information entered on a screen of
the app.
[0050] According to an embodiment, the second display 250 may
output at least one screen relevant to operation of the second
electronic device 200. For example, the second display 250 may
output a selection screen for selecting at least one app and an app
execution screen according to a specific app execution request.
When receiving an input information request message from the first
electronic device 100, the second display 250 may output a screen
relevant to the input information request message. For example, the
second display 250 may output a screen for inquiring whether to
transmit input information or a screen relevant to transmission of
input information.
[0051] According to an embodiment, the sensor 270 may include at
least one sensor for collecting user-related biometric information.
For example, the sensor 270 may include a fingerprint sensor for
obtaining fingerprint information of the user, an image sensor for
obtaining face form information of the user, or an iris sensor for
obtaining iris information of the user. Information collected by
the sensor 270 may be encrypted and stored. The sensor 270 may be
activated in response to control of the second processor 260 in an
environment in which user authentication is utilized in relation to
an autofill function of input information, and may be deactivated
according to collection of biometric information.
[0052] According to an embodiment, the second processor 260 may
perform transfer and processing of a signal relevant to operation
of the second electronic device 200. For example, when receiving an
input information request message from the first electronic device
100, the second processor 260 may output guide information about
the receipt of the message on the second display 250. When
receiving an input relevant to user identification (e.g., an input
for requesting transmission of input information), the second
processor 260 may transmit input information requested by the first
electronic device 100. In this regard, the second processor 260 may
identify app identification information or URL information that is
included in the input information request message, and may
determine whether information corresponding to the autofill
information 241 exists. In the case where the corresponding
information is included in the autofill information 241, the second
processor 260 may collect input information and may transmit the
collected input information to the first electronic device 100.
[0053] FIG. 3 is a view illustrating an example of a signal flow
between components of the system associated with providing an
autofill function according to certain embodiments.
[0054] In the following description, an autofill function of
authentication information as input information will be described
for the purposes of illustration. However, the disclosure is not
limited to the specific disclosure. For example, the first
electronic device 100 may output an input screen requesting the
entry of some specific information (e.g., for authentication), and
may receive, from the second electronic device 200, input
information (e.g., authentication information) relevant to the
autofill function and is capable of being entered on the input
screen. The first electronic device 100 may then automatically
enter the received input information on the input screen. In this
regard, the first electronic device 100 may transmit information
relevant to the input screen (e.g., app identification information
or input screen identification information) to the second
electronic device 200. The second electronic device 200 may detect
the input information mapped with the information relevant to the
input screen (e.g., retrieved from autofill information stored in
the second memory) and may transmit the detected input information
to the first electronic device 100. The first electronic device 100
may automatically enter the input information received from the
second electronic device 200 on the input screen. Accordingly, the
first electronic device 100 may receive the information utilized
for the autofill function from the second electronic device 200
connected thereto through a communication channel and may process
the information.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 3, with regard to providing an autofill
function, in operation 301, the first processor 160 of the first
electronic device 100 may utilize input information (e.g.,
authentication information) to be used for the autofill function
according to a request to execute an app. In this regard, the first
electronic device 100 may output menus or icons relevant to
execution of one or more apps, and may output a login screen for
execution of an app selected by a user input. In another example,
the first electronic device 100 may connect to a specific server
according to a specified schedule, or may connect to the specific
server according to a user input, and may receive, from the server,
login screen information for requesting user authentication and
output the received login screen information.
[0056] In the case where the input information is desired, the
first processor 160 of the first electronic device 100 may, in
operation 303, transmit an input information request message to one
or more second electronic devices 200. In this operation, the first
processor 160 may transmit the input information request message
including either app identification information or URL
information.
[0057] In the transmission of the input information request
message, the first processor 160 may transmit the input information
request message to one or more specified second electronic devices
200, or may output the input information request message in the
manner of broadcast. For example, in the case where the input
information is requested, the first processor 160 may identify an
input information reception history and may transmit the input
information request message to the second electronic devices 200
registered in the input information reception history. In this
regard, the first processor 160 may scan surroundings using a
communication module and may transmit the input information request
message to the second electronic devices 200 included in the input
information reception history, among the scanned surrounding
electronic devices.
[0058] According to certain embodiments, the first processor 160
may identify an app selected in operation 301 and may identify a
history of received input information related to operation of the
corresponding app. The first processor 160 may scan for a second
electronic device (e.g., at least one of the second electronic
devices 200) corresponding to the identified reception history, and
when the second electronic device is discovered, transmit the input
information request message to the second electronic device. In
this operation, in the case where the second electronic device
registered in the reception history is not found, the first
processor 160 may output a message indicating a failure to detect
the registered second electronic device, and may repeat execution
of the scan for a specified period of time, and/or until the
registered second electronic device is found.
[0059] In the case where the registered second electronic device
enters a coverage area and is scanned during the repeated scanning,
the first processor 160 may establish a communication channel with
the registered second electronic device and may transmit the input
information request message to the registered second electronic
device. In another example, the first processor 160 may transmit
the input information request message until the registered second
electronic device provides a response message for the input
information request message, or may consistently transmit the input
information request message for a specified period of time. In this
operation, in the case where there is no response for the specified
period of time, the first processor 160 may output guide
information, such as retry or termination of connection, on the
first display 150. In the case where the registered second
electronic device is not found, the first processor 160 may output
the input information request message in the manner of
broadcast.
[0060] In the case where the one or more second electronic devices
200 receive the input information request message, the second
processors 260 of the second electronic devices 200 may, in
operation 305, identify the requesting device (e.g., the first
electronic device 100). For example, the second electronic devices
200 may identify identification information of the first electronic
device 100 that transmitted the input information request message.
Thereafter, each of the second electronic devices 200 may determine
whether there is a history of transmitted input information (e.g.,
information (e.g., authentication information) capable of being
entered in relation to the function execution of the app that is
being executed in the first electronic device 100) to the first
electronic device 100. For example, the second processors 260 may
determine, through the autofill information 241, whether the first
electronic device 100 is registered.
[0061] When the requesting device is identified, the second
processors 260 of the second electronic device(s) 200 may, in
operation 307, transmit the input information requested by the
first electronic device 100 to the first electronic device 100. For
example, in the case where the first electronic device 100 is
registered in association with the autofill information 241, the
second processors 260 may collect the requested input information
and automatically transmit the collected input information to the
first electronic device 100. In another example, in the case where
the first electronic device 100 is not registered in association
with the autofill information 241, the second processors 260 may
output, through an output device (e.g., the second display 250),
information querying whether to transmit the input information to
the first electronic device 100. The second processors 260 may
transmit the input information to the first electronic device 100
based on a subsequent user selection responsive to the query. In
this operation, the second processors 260 may determine whether
there is input information corresponding to the app identification
information or the URL information that is included in the received
input information request message, and in the case where the
corresponding input information exists, the second processors 260
may automatically transmit the corresponding input information, or
may inquire the user whether to transmit the corresponding input
information. In the case where there is no input information
corresponding to the input information request message, the second
processors 260 may ignore the input information request
message.
[0062] When the first electronic device 100 receives the input
information, the first processor 160 of the first electronic device
100 may, in operation 309, display a list corresponding to the
received input information and receive a user selection. In this
regard, the first processor 160 may generate a list based on
identification information of the second electronic devices 200
that corresponds to the received input information. In another
example, the first processor 160 may generate the list by using
icons, images, and/or texts that represent the second electronic
devices 200.
[0063] When specific input information in the list is selected by a
user selection, the first electronic device 100 may, in operation
311, apply the selected input information and perform an
information entry function (e.g., a function of automatically
entering user authentication information or information such as a
password) according to the autofill function. When a specific
function (e.g., login or authentication) is normally performed
based on the information entered according to the autofill
function, the first electronic device 100 may execute the app
according to the performance of the specific function (e.g.,
authentication or login) and may output a screen according to the
execution of the app on the first display 150. In an embodiment, in
the case where there is no history regarding the second electronic
device that provides the input information, the first electronic
device 100 may newly register the second electronic device. For
example, the first processor 160 of the first electronic device 100
may record information including at least one of the identification
information of the second electronic device providing the input
information, the app ID or the URL information, whether the input
information is selected by the user, or whether the input
information is applied (e.g., a success or failure in
authentication). The recorded information may be used later to
select a destination device to which the first electronic device
100 transmits an input information request message.
[0064] FIG. 4 is a view illustrating another example of a signal
flow between components of the system associated with providing an
autofill function according to certain embodiments.
[0065] Referring to FIG. 4, with regard to the autofill function,
in operation 401, the first processor 160 of the first electronic
device 100 may receive a request for input information (e.g.,
authentication information) according to a request to execute an
app. For example, the first processor 160 may receive a webpage
from a specific server accessed via the Internet, and may receive a
request to log in to the webpage. In this case, the first processor
160 may receive an information input screen (e.g., a login
information request screen) from the specific server. In another
example, the first processor 160 of the first electronic device 100
may output an information input screen (e.g., an authentication
screen) in relation to execution of a specific app or access to a
webpage.
[0066] In operation 403, the first processor 160 may transfer the
information input screen to the second electronic device 200. In
this operation, the first processor 160 may transmit app
identification information or URL information together with the
information input screen to the second electronic device 200. With
regard to detecting another electronic device for transmission of
the information input screen, the first processor 160 may execute a
scan using on a communication module to discover the second
electronic device 200, and may transmit the information input
screen to the second electronic device 200 when it is found. For
example, the first processor 160 may output, on the first display
150, a list of second electronic devices discovered through
scanning and may transmit the information input screen (e.g., a
screen for requesting authentication) to a second electronic device
as selected by a user input.
[0067] In operation 405, the second processor 260 of the second
electronic device 200 may output, on the second display 250, a
screen based on a request to execute a function (or a request to
execute an app). For example, when receiving the information input
screen from the first electronic device 100, the second processor
260 may execute the app relevant to the received information input
screen and may output the information input screen on the second
display 250, according to the execution of the app by the second
processor 260. In another example, based on a URL relevant to an
authentication screen, the second processor 260 may receive a
corresponding webpage from a server. The webpage may be a screen
relevant to the information input screen received from the first
electronic device 100. The second processor 260 may output the
received information input screen (e.g., a login screen) on the
second display 250. In another example, the second processor 260
may perform authentication to determine whether to transmit the
input information utilized for the information input screen of the
first electronic device 100. In this regard, the second processor
260 may output a login screen for the authentication in operation
405, and when user login is performed in operation 407, the second
processor 260 may, in operation 409, provide the input information
utilized for the information input screen received from the first
electronic device 100 (e.g., information that is stored in the
second memory 240 in advance and that is to be used for the
autofill function on the information input screen of the first
electronic device 100) to the first electronic device 100.
[0068] In operation 407, the second processor 260 may collect
authentication information using the second input device 220. For
example, the second processor 260 may output a login screen, and
may detect a key input relevant to generating login information. In
another example, the second processor 260 may output guide
information relevant to the user authentication (e.g., information
for requesting a biometric information input such as a fingerprint
input or an iris input) and may activate the corresponding sensor
270. The second processor 260 may collect biometric information
from a user, based on the activated sensor 270. According to an
embodiment, the second processor 260 may output, on the second
display 250, a guide message requesting entry of a fingerprint for
authentication, and may obtain fingerprint information as
authentication information.
[0069] In operation 409, the second electronic device 200 may
transmit input information according to the user authentication
(e.g., authentication information obtained when the user
authentication is performed) to the first electronic device 100. In
this operation, the second electronic device 200 may encrypt the
input information and may transmit the encrypted input information
to the first electronic device 100. In another example, the second
electronic device 200 may impose a restriction on the input
information such that the input information is used within a
specified number of times or within a specified period of time.
Thereafter, the second electronic device 200 may transmit the input
information, the usability of which is restricted, to the first
electronic device 100. In another example, after transmitting the
input information, the second electronic device 200 may transmit,
to the first electronic device 100, information to request that the
corresponding input information is used within a specified period
of time or within a specified number of times.
[0070] In operation 411, the first processor 160 may process
execution of a specified app by using the received input
information based on successful authentication. For example, the
first processor 160 may complete app authentication and may output,
on the first display 150, an execution screen according to the
completion of the authentication. In another example, the first
processor 160 may provide the authentication information to a
server, may receive a webpage according to the completion of the
authentication from the server, and may output the received webpage
on the first display 150.
[0071] FIG. 5 is a view illustrating an example of an operating
method of the first electronic device related to an autofill
function according to certain embodiments.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 5, with regard to the operating method of
the first electronic device 100 according to certain embodiments,
in operation 501, the first processor 160 of the first electronic
device 100 may receive a request to execute a function. For
example, the first processor 160 may connect to a specific server
according to a user input and may receive a webpage provided by the
server. In another example, the first processor 160 may receive a
user input relevant to a menu selection or an icon selection that
is associated with execution of an app. In another example, the
first processor 160 may receive a request to execute a specified
app, according to schedule settings or scheduling.
[0073] In operation 503, the first processor 160 may determine
whether authentication information entry is associated with access
of the requested function. For example, the first processor 160 may
identify URL information and may determine whether login is
utilized for access to the corresponding webpage. In another
example, the first processor 160 may determine whether user
authentication is utilized for execution of a requested app, based
on the app's corresponding identification information. In this
operation, the first processor 160 may output, on the first display
150, information input screen relevant to the execution of the app
(e.g., a login screen).
[0074] When it is determined that the information entry is not
utilized, the first processor 160 may, in operation 505, execute
the corresponding function and output a screen according to the
execution of the function on the first display 150. For example,
the first display 150 may output a webpage provided by a specific
server, or may output an execution screen of a specific app.
[0075] When it is determined that the authentication information
entry is utilized, the first processor 160 may, in operation 507,
request input information (e.g., authentication information). In
this regard, the first processor 160 may execute a scan to detect
other communicable electronic devices, and may transmit an input
information request message to a second electronic device
discovered by the scan. In another example, the first processor 160
may transmit the input information request message to at least one
second electronic device 200 already connected with the first
electronic device 100 through an established communication channel.
In this operation, the first processor 160 may output, on the first
display 150, a list including second electronic devices 200
connected through communication channels or second electronic
devices 200 capable of communication connection (e.g., second
electronic devices found through scanning), and may transmit the
authentication information request message to a second electronic
device 200 as selected by a user input. In another example, the
first processor 160 may transmit the input information request
message (e.g., in the manner of multicast or broadcast) to at least
one second electronic device 200 connected with the first
electronic device 100 or second electronic devices 200 capable of
communication connection.
[0076] In operation 509, the first processor 160 may receive the
input information from at least one second electronic device 200.
In this operation, when no input information is received within a
specified period of time, the first processor 160 may output a
message indicating a failure to obtain the input information, and
may output a prompt requesting direct information entry. In another
example, when no input information is received within a specified
period of time, the first processor 160 may output, on the first
display 50, a message requesting connection with a second
electronic device 200 capable of providing input information. In
this regard, the first processor 160 may identify an input
information reception history and may collect identification
information of a second electronic device 200 that has a history of
having provided input information relevant to the function or app
that is desired to be currently executed. The first processor 160
may output, on the first display 150, the identification
information of the second electronic device 200 having the history
of having provided the input information, based on the collected
identification information. The first processor 160 may perform a
scanning operation for a specified period of time, and when the
second electronic device 200 that has the history of having
provided the input information approaches a coverage area, the
first processor 160 may establish a communication channel with the
second electronic device 200 having the history of having provided
the input information. The first processor 160 may transmit an
input information request message to the second electronic device
200 having the history of having provided the input information,
based on the communication channel and may receive input
information (e.g., authentication information) that corresponds to
the input information request message. In another example, the
first processor 160 may output the input information request
message in the manner of broadcast for a specified period of time
and may wait to receive a response message (e.g., a message
including input information) that corresponds to the input
information request message.
[0077] When the input information is received from the at least one
second electronic device 200, the first processor 160 may, in
operation 511, input the received input information into the
relevant fields, and process the execution of the function. For
example, the first processor 160 may enter received authentication
information into the fields of a login screen by using the autofill
function (e.g., or in an automatic manner). The first processor 160
may perform authentication in response to a user input for
requesting confirmation of authentication. When the authentication
fails, the first processor 160 may output a message regarding the
failure in the authentication and may output an authentication
information editing screen. In another example, in the state of
receiving a plurality of pieces of authentication information, the
first processor 160 may perform authentication based on specified
authentication information or specific authentication information.
When the authentication fails, the first processor 160 may output a
screen for selecting any one of the plurality of pieces of
authentication information received. In this operation, the first
processor 160 may deactivate the authentication information by
which the authentication fails, or may remove the authentication
information from the list that includes the plurality of pieces of
authentication information.
[0078] In operation 507 described above, according to an
embodiment, the first processor 160 may identify an input
information reception history before transmitting the input
information request message and may transmit the input information
request message to a specified second electronic device 200 or may
transmit the input information request message toward at least one
second electronic device 200 located nearby through broadcast. In
another example, before transmitting the input information request
message, the first processor 160 may identify an input information
reception history. In the case where there is history information
of a second electronic device 200 from which input information
relevant to the function or app that is requested to be executed at
present was received, the first processor 160 may attempt
communication connection with the second electronic device 200.
When a communication channel with the second electronic device 200
is established, the first processor 160 may transmit the input
information request message to the second electronic device 200
communicatively connected thereto. In this operation, when the
communication connection with the second electronic device 200
fails, the first processor 160 may guide the failure in the
communication connection and may attempt communication connection
with the second electronic device 200 again according to a user
input or may repeatedly transmit the input information request
message in the manner of broadcast every predetermined period or
for a predetermined number of times.
[0079] In operation 509 described above, according to an
embodiment, when receiving a plurality of pieces of input
information, the first processor 160 may generate a list based on
identification information of second electronic devices 200 that
provide the plurality of pieces of input information, and may
output the generated list. Accordingly, in operation 511, the first
processor 160 may process the function (e.g., authentication),
based on input information of an item selected by a user input.
[0080] FIG. 6 is a view illustrating an example of an operating
method of the second electronic device related to an autofill
function according to certain embodiments.
[0081] Referring to FIG. 6, with regard to the operating method of
the second electronic device related to the autofill function, in
operation 601, the second processor 260 of the second electronic
device 200 may determine whether a request for input information
(e.g., a request for authentication information) is received. The
request for the input information may include a message that the
first electronic device 100 transmits in the manner of broadcast or
through a set communication channel. The request for the input
information may include identification information of the first
electronic device 100. When it is determined that the request for
the input information is not received, the second processor 260
may, in operation 603, perform a specified function. For example,
the second processor 260 may output a specific webpage according to
a user input, or may execute a specific app.
[0082] When it is determined that the request for the input
information is received, the second processor 260 may, in operation
605, determine whether the device that requests the input
information is a specified registered device. In this regard, the
second processor 260 may store and manage a transmission/reception
history of the input information. The transmission/reception
history may include identification information or connection
information of an electronic device which has historically provided
the input information. The second processor 260 may identify
transmission/reception history information stored in the second
memory 240 and determine whether the device to which the input
information is to be provided is the electronic device registered
in the transmission/reception history. When it is determined that
the device to which the input information is to be provided is the
registered device, the second processor 260 may, in operation 607,
transmit the input information to the electronic device (e.g., the
first electronic device 100) that requests the input
information.
[0083] When it is determined in operation 605 that the device to
which the input information is to be provided is not the registered
device, the second processor 260 may, in operation 609, generate a
request to determine whether to transmit the input information. For
example, the second processor 260 may output a screen including a
virtual selection button for prompting confirmation as to whether
to transmit the input information to the device (e.g., the first
electronic device 100). In another example, the second processor
260 may output a popup window to prompt confirmation as to whether
to transmit the input information.
[0084] In operation 611, the second processor 260 may determine
whether a user input confirming transmission of the input
information is detected. When the confirmation is detected, the
second processor 260 may proceed to operation 607 and transmit the
input information. When confirmation is not detected or outright
rejected, the second processor 260 may, in operation 613, transmit
specified guide information to the electronic device that requested
the input information. In another example, the second processor 260
may terminate output of a screen relevant to the transmission of
the input information. Thereafter, the second processor 260 may
return to operation 601 and may perform the subsequent operations
again.
[0085] According to the certain embodiments described above, an
electronic device according to an embodiment (e.g., the second
electronic device 200 of FIG. 2) may include communication
circuitry (e.g., the second communication circuitry 210 of FIG. 2)
that communicate with an external electronic device (e.g., the
first electronic device 100 of FIG. 2), a memory (e.g., the second
memory 240 of FIG. 2) that stores input information (e.g., autofill
information including authentication information), and a processor
(e.g., the second processor 260 of FIG. 2) that is operatively
connected with the communication circuitry and the memory. When
receiving, from the external electronic device (e.g., the first
electronic device 100 of FIG. 2), an input information request
message for requesting input information that is to be entered on
an information input screen, which is relevant to execution of an
app, based on an autofill function, the processor may detect the
input information stored in the memory, in response to the receipt
of the input information request message and may transmit the
detected input information to the external electronic device.
[0086] According to certain embodiments, the processor (e.g., the
second processor 260 of FIG. 2) may identify identification
information of the external electronic device (or connection
information of the external electronic device) and may
automatically transmit the input information when the external
electronic device is a specified device.
[0087] According to certain embodiments, when the external
electronic device is not the specified device, the processor (e.g.,
the second processor 260 of FIG. 2) may output an approval request
relevant to the transmission of the input information (e.g., a
screen such as a popup window or a confirmation window for
obtaining approval for the transmission of the input information)
on a display (e.g., the second display 250) and may transmit the
input information to the external electronic device according to a
user input.
[0088] FIG. 7 is a view illustrating an example of a screen
interface related to an autofill function according to certain
embodiments.
[0089] Referring to FIG. 7, with regard to the screen interface
related to the autofill function, as shown on screen 701, the first
electronic device 100 may output a screen including an information
input window, such as, for example, a login input window 710 on the
first display 150. In this regard, the first electronic device 100
may output an app selection screen including the login input window
710. When a user selects a specific app, the first electronic
device 100, as shown on screen 701, may output the screen including
the information input window (e.g., the login input window 710)
relevant to execution of the app. In another example, when an event
including a login input occurs (e.g., executing some application or
content which requests a login for application or server access),
the first electronic device 100 may output the login input window
710 on the first display 150 as illustrated.
[0090] The information input window relevant to the execution of
the app may be, for example, a window including one or more input
fields for entering user information, payment card or other payment
information, or voice authentication. For example, the first
electronic device 100 may include, for example, a television (TV),
and the second electronic device may include, for example, a
smartphone, a tablet PC, an AI speaker, or a smart watch. The first
electronic device 100 may connect with an external electronic
device (e.g., at least one second electronic device) in a
wired/wireless manner or through Bluetooth or Zigbee. In another
example, the first electronic device 100 may be connected with the
external electronic device through WiFi, WiFi direct, the same
commercial network, or USB connection. FIG. 7 illustrates an
example in which a package name representing the specific app
according to the execution of the corresponding app and a login
screen (or the login input window 710) on which a user input is
entered in an ID input field or a password input field are output
on the first electronic device 100 that is a TV device.
[0091] When the login input window 710 is output, as shown on
screen 703, the first electronic device 100 may output, on the
first display 150, a list 720 of second electronic devices that
capable of connecting, or are already connected, with the first
electronic device 100. In another example, the first electronic
device 100 may execute scanning for available devices using a
communication module, and output the list 720 indicating any
discovered second electronic devices. For example, as illustrated,
the list 720 may include icons or images representing the second
electronic devices. When selection of a specific item included in
the list 720 is detected, the first electronic device 100 may
request input information (e.g., or authentication information to
be entered by using the autofill function) from the second
electronic device corresponding to the relevant item. In another
example, the first electronic device 100 may transmit an input
information request message to the second electronic devices
included in the list 720. According to certain embodiments, the
first electronic device 100 may highlight an electronic device
having the desired input information, as indicated in a service
history relevant to the app that is being executed at present. In
an embodiment, the first electronic device 100 may automatically
transmit the input information request message to the highlighted
second electronic device. Although the list 720 is displayed in the
area of the login input window 710, the disclosure is not limited
thereto. The list 720 may be output in a different area or in a
separate window.
[0092] According to certain embodiments, when focus is on the
information input window (e.g., the login input window 710) (e.g.,
when a pointer is on the login input window 710 or a touch input
closely approaches or touches the login input window 710), the
first electronic device 100 may request input information for
autofill from the second electronic device 200. In response to the
request of the first electronic device 100 for the input
information, the second electronic device 200 may output a screen
for inquiring whether to approve transmission of input information
stored in the second memory. When a user input according to
approval for the transmission occurs or the transmission is allowed
by default, the second electronic device 200 may transmit the
corresponding input information to the first electronic device 100.
The first electronic device 100 may output information on the
information input window (e.g., the login input window 710)
according to the autofill function by using the input information
received from the second electronic device 200.
[0093] According to certain embodiments, when a new external
electronic device having no previous connection history is
connected, the first electronic device 100 may output information
(e.g., an image or text) that indicates that the new external
electronic device is a new device, and may perform connection to an
external electronic device that has a connection history or for
which user authentication is performed in advance. In the case
where a plurality of external electronic devices are connected as
described above, the first electronic device 100 may display the
external electronic devices and may wait for a user input. The
first electronic device 100 may provide a UI for blocking a
specific external electronic device and may prevent unnecessary
information from being transferred from an external electronic
device that a user operating the first electronic device 100 does
not want.
[0094] The first electronic device 100 may provide UIs for
connection methods of external electronic devices connected
thereto. For example, the first electronic device 100 may display a
WiFi logo, a WiFi direct logo, or a Bluetooth logo according to the
methods by which the first electronic device 100 is connected with
the external electronic devices. In the case where the first
electronic device 100 has a display, the first electronic device
100 may output information through the display, and in the case
where the first electronic device 100 has no display, the first
electronic device 100 may establish a communication channel with a
surrounding device having a display and may perform control to
output a screen relevant to operation of the autofill function. In
another example, the first electronic device 100 may output
progress information relevant to operation of the autofill function
through a specific sound or vibration.
[0095] According to certain embodiments, in an operation of
displaying an input information list 730, the first electronic
device 100 may display at least one of the name of an external
electronic device, a user name, or an icon indicating the external
electronic device. When requesting input information, the first
electronic device 100 may convert and transmit the request to
conform to a corresponding electronic device format according to
the type of connected external electronic device (e.g., a
smartphone, a tablet PC, or an AI speaker).
[0096] According to certain embodiments, in an input standby state
on a website screen according to execution of a web browser, the
first electronic device 100 may transmit the URL of the
corresponding website to an external electronic device. In another
example, the first electronic device 100 may provide, to the
external electronic device, a component name indicating the type of
area (or input field) in which input information is entered through
the autofill function. The component may include, for example, the
ID of a specific tag, a class name, or a distinguishable attribute
value in an HTML code. The first electronic device 100 may
transmit, to the external electronic device, the entire webpage
contents that are being output on the first display 150.
[0097] According to certain embodiments, when the input information
is received in response to the request for the input information,
as shown on screen 705, the first electronic device 100 may output
the received input information list 730 on the first display 150.
The input information list 730 may include input information that a
plurality of second electronic devices provide in response to the
request for the input information. The input information list 730
may include at least some of images (or icons) and texts by which
the second electronic devices are identified. Although it is
exemplified that the input information list 730 is displayed in a
predetermined area of the login input window 710, the disclosure is
not limited thereto. For example, the login input window 710 may be
output as a separate window, or may be output in a different area
of the first display 150. The displayed input information list 730
is aimed at identifying the second electronic devices, and actual
input information may be encrypted and temporarily stored in the
first memory 140. The input information temporarily stored in the
first memory 140 may be automatically deleted after used for
authentication of the app that is being executed at present.
[0098] According to certain embodiments, a plurality of second
electronic devices may be wiredly/wirelessly connected to the first
electronic device 100, and the first electronic device 100 may
transfer the current screen information to the plurality of second
electronic devices. The plurality of second electronic devices may
determine whether there is input information that is to be entered
through the autofill function in response to the current screen of
the first electronic device 100, and at least one second electronic
device may transmit, to the first electronic device 100, input
information that is to be entered through the autofill
function.
[0099] FIG. 8 is a view illustrating another example of a screen
interface related to an autofill function according to certain
embodiments.
[0100] Referring to FIG. 8, with regard to the autofill function,
the first electronic device 100 (e.g., a TV device) may transmit an
authentication screen information relevant to authentication to the
second electronic device 200 when the first electronic device 100
executes an app utilizing authentication, or accesses a webpage
utilizing authentication according to access to a server. When
receiving the authentication screen information from the first
electronic device 100, the second electronic device 200 may extract
app identification information from the authentication screen
information, and may execute the corresponding app, or may obtain
URL information to connect to the corresponding server and may
output an authentication screen utilizing authentication on the
second display 250.
[0101] In this operation, the second electronic device 200 may
output, on the second display 250, information indicating the
execution of the app in the first electronic device 100 or the
execution of the webpage utilizing authentication, together with
authentication request information. For example, as illustrated,
the second electronic device 200 may output guide information 810
prompting entry of fingerprint information for authentication in
the first electronic device 100. The second electronic device 200
may activate a fingerprint sensor, with the output of the guide
information 810 and may output guide information to lead a user to
input a fingerprint. The second electronic device 200, when
obtaining fingerprint information, may provide the corresponding
fingerprint information to the first electronic device 100.
[0102] According to certain embodiments, the second electronic
device 200 may include an autofill management app to obtain input
information for autofill. The autofill management app may determine
whether there is a stored value relevant to a raw data set of an
authentication information request message received from the first
electronic device 100 and may obtain the corresponding data when
the relevant stored value exists. Alternatively, the autofill
management app may obtain a result value (e.g., a value when login
is normally performed) that is obtained by performing simulation
(e.g., entering at least one ID and password) by using the raw data
(e.g., a login input window) of the authentication information
request message, or may obtain a user input.
[0103] According to certain embodiments, the autofill management
app may execute, in the second electronic device 200, a specified
app that is the same as the app being executed in the first
electronic device 100 and may obtain and transmit, to the first
electronic device 100, a result value (e.g., input information that
has to be entered to execute the specified app) that is applied to
the specified app. For example, with regard to the raw data
simulation, when information relevant to a URL and a specific input
form is included in the raw data, the second electronic device 200
may load the data into a web browser of the second electronic
device 200, and when being in a user input standby state with focus
on the specific input form, the second electronic device 200 may
return information given by the web browser to the first electronic
device 100 without change. This method may be very useful when a
webpage not subordinate to a device platform is given.
[0104] According to certain embodiments, the second electronic
device 200 may transfer, to the first electronic device 100, at
least one of a voice data input obtained by the second electronic
device 200, a voice input for text entry, or input information
obtained through photographing for face recognition.
[0105] According to certain embodiments, the second electronic
device 200 may output, on a screen, a plurality of pieces of input
information stored in the second memory 240 and may transmit input
information according to a user selection to the first electronic
device 100. In this operation, the second electronic device 200 may
select specific input information by default (or automatically)
according to a previous history of having provided information to
the first electronic device 100, and may transmit the selected
specific input information to the first electronic device 100.
[0106] FIG. 9 is a view illustrating another example of an
environment to which an autofill function is applied according to
certain embodiments.
[0107] Referring to FIG. 9, the environment relevant to the
autofill function may include the first electronic device 100, a
hub device 300, and/or the second electronic device 200.
[0108] The first electronic device 100 may be a device that outputs
an input window relevant to the autofill function. When an app or a
specific webpage to which the autofill function is applied is
executed, the first electronic device 100 may request input
information for autofill from the hub device 300 that is connected
thereto through a communication channel (or a wired communication
channel).
[0109] When receiving the request for the input information, the
hub device 300 may identify the app or the specific webpage
requested to be executed in the first electronic device 100 and may
search for the second electronic device 200 that is capable of
providing the input information utilized for the first electronic
device 100. The hub device 300 may transfer the request for the
input information to the found second electronic device 200, and
when receiving the input information from the second electronic
device 200, the hub device 300 may transfer the input information
to the first electronic device 100. In this regard, the hub device
300 may store and manage histories of the first electronic device
100 and at least one second electronic device 200 that are
associated with providing the input information. In this regard,
the hub device 300 may include communication circuitry 310 for
communication with at least one external electronic device and a
processor 360. With regard to the request for the input
information, the communication circuitry 310 of the hub device 300
may establish a communication channel with at least one of the
first electronic device 100 or the second electronic device 200.
For the transfer of the input information utilized for the first
electronic device 100, the processor 360 of the hub device 300 may
search for the second electronic device 200 and may receive and
transfer the input information. The hub device 300 may further
include a memory for storing data or a program in relation to the
above-described operation control.
[0110] When receiving the request for the input information from
the hub device 300, the second electronic device 200 may identify
the app or the specific webpage, may extract, from the second
memory 240, input information to be provided to the corresponding
app or the specific webpage, and may transmit the extracted input
information to the hub device 300.
[0111] Although it has been described that the hub device 300
performs the device search for the transfer of the input
information and the collection and transfer of the input
information between the first electronic device 100 and the second
electronic device 200, the disclosure is not limited thereto. For
example, the hub device 300 may not search for the second
electronic device 200 capable of providing separate input
information, may output an input information request message in the
manner of broadcast when receiving the request for the input
information from the first electronic device 100, and may relay at
least one response message to the first electronic device 100 when
at least one second electronic device 200 provides the response
message.
[0112] As described above, the devices and methods for providing
the autofill function according to the certain embodiments may
support more easily and rapidly processing information entry in an
operation of entering information on a screen by devices that have
no input device or that have a more unfamiliar and inconvenient
input method than a PC or a mobile device.
[0113] Furthermore, the devices and methods for providing the
autofill function according to the certain embodiments do not use
information of a cloud server and therefore may support using an
auto login function or a function of automatically pre-filling a
form, without management of an account for each device or the
information of the cloud server and may provide a more stable
environment in terms of security than when authentication
information is stored and operated in a separate network
server.
[0114] In addition, the devices and methods for providing the
autofill function according to the certain embodiments may support
easily identifying and selecting information of electronic devices
even in a situation in which the electronic devices are connected
to one device, thereby improving usefulness even in an environment
of an electronic device (e.g., TV) that is used in common.
[0115] The certain embodiments of the disclosure may provide an
autofill function support system that includes the first electronic
device 100 and the second electronic device 200. In the autofill
function support system, the first electronic device 100, when
receiving a request to execute an app, may output an information
input screen relevant to the execution of the app on the display,
may make a request for at least one piece of input information that
is to be entered on the information input screen based on the
autofill function, to the second electronic device 200 through the
communication circuitry, and may apply the at least one piece of
input information to a function of the app when receiving the at
least one piece of input information from the second electronic
device 200, and the second electronic device 200, when receiving an
input information request message from the first electronic device
100, may transmit input information stored or entered through an
input device to the first electronic device 100.
[0116] According to certain embodiments, the information input
screen may include an authentication screen relevant to user
authentication, and the input information may include
authentication information utilized for the user
authentication.
[0117] According to certain embodiments, an electronic device
(e.g., the first electronic device 100 of FIG. 2) according to an
embodiment may include communication circuitry (e.g., the first
communication circuitry 110 of FIG. 2), a memory (e.g., the first
memory 140 of FIG. 2) that stores at least one application, a
display (e.g., the first display 150 of FIG. 2), and a processor
(e.g., the first processor 160 of FIG. 2) that is operatively
connected with the memory (e.g., the first memory 140 of FIG. 2)
and the display (e.g., the first display 150 of FIG. 2). The
processor 160 may be configured to output an information input
screen (e.g., the login input window 710 of FIG. 7) relevant to
execution of an application on the display 150 when receiving a
request to execute the application, receive at least one piece of
input information to be entered on the information input screen,
from an external electronic device (e.g., the second electronic
device 200 of FIG. 2) via the communication circuitry (e.g., the
first communication circuitry 110 of FIG. 2), and automatically
enter the at least one piece of input information on the
information input screen.
[0118] According to certain embodiments, the information input
screen may include an authentication screen relevant to user
authentication.
[0119] According to certain embodiments, the input information may
include authentication information utilized for the user
authentication.
[0120] According to certain embodiments, the processor (e.g., the
first processor 160 of FIG. 2) may be configured to identify an
input information transmission/reception history stored in the
memory and transmit a request message for requesting the input
information to one or more external electronic devices registered
in the input information transmission/reception history.
[0121] According to certain embodiments, the processor (e.g., the
first processor 160 of FIG. 2) may be configured to transmit the
request message to an external electronic device having a history
of having provided input information relevant to the application
requested to be executed at present, among the one or more external
electronic devices registered in the input information
transmission/reception history.
[0122] According to certain embodiments, the processor (e.g., the
first processor 160 of FIG. 2) may be configured to identify an
input information transmission/reception history stored in the
memory 140, output a list of one or more external electronic
devices registered in the input information transmission/reception
history, and display a specific external electronic device
differently from other items, the specific external electronic
device having transmitted/received input information relevant to
the application requested to be executed at present.
[0123] According to certain embodiments, the processor (e.g., the
first processor 160 of FIG. 2) may be configured to perform
scanning based on the communication circuitry 110 and transmit a
request message for requesting the input information to one or more
external electronic devices that are able to be connected, or are
connected, with the electronic device.
[0124] According to certain embodiments, the processor (e.g., the
first processor 160 of FIG. 2) may be configured to transmit a
request message for requesting the input information, in a manner
of broadcast based on the communication circuitry 110.
[0125] According to certain embodiments, the processor (e.g., the
first processor 160 of FIG. 2) may be configured to receive a
plurality of pieces of input information from a plurality of
external electronic devices, respectively, and output a list from
which one of the plurality of pieces of input information is
selectable.
[0126] According to certain embodiments, the processor (e.g., the
first processor 160 of FIG. 2) may be configured to generate the
list with items including at least one of images or texts by which
the plurality of external electronic devices is identified.
[0127] According to the certain embodiments described above, a
method for providing an autofill function according to an
embodiment may include operations executed by a processor of an
electronic device, in which the operations may include receiving a
request to execute an application (e.g., 501 of FIG. 5), outputting
an information input screen relevant to the execution of the
application on a display (e.g., 503 of FIG. 5), requesting at least
one piece of input information to be entered on the information
input screen, from an external electronic device via communication
circuitry (e.g., 507 of FIG. 5), receiving the at least one piece
of input information, which is to be entered on the information
input screen, from the external electronic device via the
communication circuitry (e.g., 509 of FIG. 5), and automatically
entering the at least one piece of input information on the
information input screen (e.g., 511 of FIG. 5).
[0128] According to certain embodiments, the method may further
include identifying an input information transmission/reception
history stored in a memory and transmitting a request message for
requesting the input information to one or more external electronic
devices registered in the input information transmission/reception
history.
[0129] According to certain embodiments, the transmitting of the
request message may include transmitting the request message to an
external electronic device having a history of having provided
input information relevant to the application requested to be
executed at present, among the one or more external electronic
devices registered in the input information transmission/reception
history.
[0130] According to certain embodiments, the method may further
include identifying an input information transmission/reception
history stored in a memory, outputting a list of one or more
external electronic devices registered in the input information
transmission/reception history, and displaying a specific external
electronic device differently from other items, the specific
external electronic device having transmitted/received input
information relevant to the application requested to be executed at
present.
[0131] According to certain embodiments, the method may further
include performing scanning based on the communication circuitry
and transmitting a request message for requesting the input
information to one or more external electronic devices that are
able to be connected, or are connected, with the electronic
device.
[0132] According to certain embodiments, the method may further
include transmitting a request message for requesting the input
information, in a manner of broadcast based on the communication
circuitry.
[0133] According to certain embodiments, the receiving of the at
least one piece of input information may include receiving a
plurality of pieces of input information from a plurality of
external electronic devices, respectively, and outputting a list
from which one of the plurality of pieces of input information is
selectable.
[0134] According to certain embodiments, the outputting of the list
may include configuring the list with items including at least one
of images or texts by which the plurality of external electronic
devices are identified.
[0135] According to certain embodiments of the disclosure, an
electronic device (e.g., the hub device 300 of FIG. 9) according to
an embodiment may include communication circuitry (e.g., the
communication circuitry 310 of FIG. 9) that establishes a
communication channel to communicate with at least one external
electronic device and a processor (e.g., the processor 360 of FIG.
9) that is operatively connected with the communication circuitry.
The processor may be configured to receive a request for input
information from a first external electronic device (e.g., the
first electronic device 100 of FIG. 9), search for a second
external electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device 200
of FIG. 9) that provides the input information utilized for the
first external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 100
of FIG. 9), transfer the request for the input information to the
found second external electronic device 200, and transmit the input
information to the first external electronic device 100 when
receiving the input information from the second external electronic
device 200.
[0136] The processor may be configured to identify an application
or a webpage requested to be executed in the first external
electronic device 100, when receiving the request for the input
information from the first external electronic device 100 and
search for the second external electronic device 200 that provides
the input information based on the corresponding application or
webpage.
[0137] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device
1001 in a network environment 1000 according to certain
embodiments.
[0138] Referring to FIG. 10, the electronic device 1001 in the
network environment 1000 may communicate with an electronic device
1002 via a first network 1098 (e.g., a short-range wireless
communication network), or an electronic device 1004 or a server
1008 via a second network 1099 (e.g., a long-range wireless
communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic
device 1001 may communicate with the electronic device 1004 via the
server 1008. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 1001
may include a processor 1020, memory 1030, an input device 1050, a
sound output device 1055, a display device 1060, an audio module
1070, a sensor module 1076, an interface 1077, a haptic module
1079, a camera module 1080, a power management module 1088, a
battery 1089, a communication module 1090, a subscriber
identification module (SIM) 1096, or an antenna module 1097. In
some embodiments, at least one (e.g., the display device 1060 or
the camera module 1080) of the components may be omitted from the
electronic device 1001, or one or more other components may be
added in the electronic device 1001. In some embodiments, some of
the components may be implemented as single integrated circuitry.
For example, the sensor module 1076 (e.g., a fingerprint sensor, an
iris sensor, or an illuminance sensor) may be implemented as
embedded in the display device 1060 (e.g., a display).
[0139] The processor 1020 may execute, for example, software (e.g.,
a program 1040) to control at least one other component (e.g., a
hardware or software component) of the electronic device 1001
coupled with the processor 1020, and may perform various data
processing or computation. According to an embodiment, as at least
part of the data processing or computation, the processor 1020 may
load a command or data received from another component (e.g., the
sensor module 1076 or the communication module 1090) in volatile
memory 1032, process the command or the data stored in the volatile
memory 1032, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory 1034.
According to an embodiment, the processor 1020 may include a main
processor 1021 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an
application processor (AP)), and an auxiliary processor 1023 (e.g.,
a graphics processing unit (GPU), an image signal processor (ISP),
a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is
operable independently from, or in conjunction with, the main
processor 1021. Additionally or alternatively, the auxiliary
processor 1023 may be adapted to consume less power than the main
processor 1021, or to be specific to a specified function. The
auxiliary processor 1023 may be implemented as separate from, or as
part of the main processor 1021.
[0140] The auxiliary processor 1023 may control at least some of
functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the
display device 1060, the sensor module 1076, or the communication
module 1090) among the components of the electronic device 1001,
instead of the main processor 1021 while the main processor 1021 is
in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main
processor 1021 while the main processor 1021 is in an active state
(e.g., executing an application). According to an embodiment, the
auxiliary processor 1023 (e.g., an image signal processor or a
communication processor) may be implemented as part of another
component (e.g., the camera module 1080 or the communication module
1090) functionally related to the auxiliary processor 1023.
[0141] The memory 1030 may store various data used by at least one
component (e.g., the processor 1020 or the sensor module 1076) of
the electronic device 1001. The various data may include, for
example, software (e.g., the program 1040) and input data or output
data for a command related thereto. The memory 1030 may include the
volatile memory 1032 or the non-volatile memory 1034.
[0142] The program 1040 may be stored in the memory 1030 as
software, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS)
1042, middleware 1044, or an application 1046.
[0143] The input device 1050 may receive a command or data to be
used by other component (e.g., the processor 1020) of the
electronic device 1001, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the
electronic device 1001. The input device 1050 may include, for
example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, or a digital pen (e.g.,
a stylus pen).
[0144] The sound output device 1055 may output sound signals to the
outside of the electronic device 1001. The sound output device 1055
may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may
be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing
record, and the receiver may be used for an incoming calls.
According to an embodiment, the receiver may be implemented as
separate from, or as part of the speaker.
[0145] The display device 1060 may visually provide information to
the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device 1001. The
display device 1060 may include, for example, a display, a hologram
device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a
corresponding one of the display, hologram device, and projector.
According to an embodiment, the display device 1060 may include
touch circuitry adapted to detect a touch, or sensor circuitry
(e.g., a pressure sensor) adapted to measure the intensity of force
incurred by the touch.
[0146] The audio module 1070 may convert a sound into an electrical
signal and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module
1070 may obtain the sound via the input device 1050, or output the
sound via the sound output device 1055 or a headphone of an
external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device 1002)
directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic
device 1001.
[0147] The sensor module 1076 may detect an operational state
(e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device 1001 or an
environmental state (e.g., a state of a user) external to the
electronic device 1001, and then generate an electrical signal or
data value corresponding to the detected state. According to an
embodiment, the sensor module 1076 may include, for example, a
gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a
magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity
sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric
sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance
sensor.
[0148] The interface 1077 may support one or more specified
protocols to be used for the electronic device 1001 to be coupled
with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device
1002) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. According to an
embodiment, the interface 1077 may include, for example, a high
definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus
(USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio
interface.
[0149] A connecting terminal 1078 may include a connector via which
the electronic device 1001 may be physically connected with the
external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 1002).
According to an embodiment, the connecting terminal 1078 may
include, for example, a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card
connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).
[0150] The haptic module 1079 may convert an electrical signal into
a mechanical stimulus (e.g., a vibration or a movement) or
electrical stimulus which may be recognized by a user via his
tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation. According to an
embodiment, the haptic module 1079 may include, for example, a
motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.
[0151] The camera module 1080 may capture a still image or moving
images. According to an embodiment, the camera module 1080 may
include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors,
or flashes.
[0152] The power management module 1088 may manage power supplied
to the electronic device 1001. According to an embodiment, the
power management module 1088 may be implemented as at least part
of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).
[0153] The battery 1089 may supply power to at least one component
of the electronic device 1001. According to an embodiment, the
battery 1089 may include, for example, a primary cell which is not
rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel
cell.
[0154] The communication module 1090 may support establishing a
direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless
communication channel between the electronic device 1001 and the
external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 1002, the
electronic device 1004, or the server 1008) and performing
communication via the established communication channel. The
communication module 1090 may include one or more communication
processors that are operable independently from the processor 1020
(e.g., the application processor (AP)) and supports a direct (e.g.,
wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an
embodiment, the communication module 1090 may include a wireless
communication module 1092 (e.g., a cellular communication module, a
short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation
satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired
communication module 1094 (e.g., a local area network (LAN)
communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A
corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate
with the external electronic device via the first network 1098
(e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth.TM.,
wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association
(IrDA)) or the second network 1099 (e.g., a long-range
communication network, such as a cellular network, the Internet, or
a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)). These
various types of communication modules may be implemented as a
single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as
multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The
wireless communication module 1092 may identify and authenticate
the electronic device 1001 in a communication network, such as the
first network 1098 or the second network 1099, using subscriber
information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI))
stored in the subscriber identification module 1096.
[0155] The antenna module 1097 may transmit or receive a signal or
power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device)
of the electronic device 1001. According to an embodiment, the
antenna module 1097 may include an antenna including a radiating
element composed of a conductive material or a conductive pattern
formed in or on a substrate (e.g., PCB). According to an
embodiment, the antenna module 1097 may include a plurality of
antennas. In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a
communication scheme used in the communication network, such as the
first network 1098 or the second network 1099, may be selected, for
example, by the communication module 1090 (e.g., the wireless
communication module 1092) from the plurality of antennas. The
signal or the power may then be transmitted or received between the
communication module 1090 and the external electronic device via
the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment,
another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit
(RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed
as part of the antenna module 1097.
[0156] At least some of the above-described components may be
coupled mutually and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data)
therebetween via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., a
bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral
interface (SPI), or mobile industry processor interface
(MIPI)).
[0157] According to an embodiment, commands or data may be
transmitted or received between the electronic device 1001 and the
external electronic device 1004 via the server 1008 coupled with
the second network 1099. Each of the electronic devices 1002 and
1004 may be a device of a same type as, or a different type, from
the electronic device 1001. According to an embodiment, all or some
of operations to be executed at the electronic device 1001 may be
executed at one or more of the external electronic devices 1002,
1004, or 1008. For example, if the electronic device 1001 should
perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a
request from a user or another device, the electronic device 1001,
instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the
service, may request the one or more external electronic devices to
perform at least part of the function or the service. The one or
more external electronic devices receiving the request may perform
the at least part of the function or the service requested, or an
additional function or an additional service related to the
request, and transfer an outcome of the performing to the
electronic device 1001. The electronic device 1001 may provide the
outcome, with or without further processing of the outcome, as at
least part of a reply to the request. To that end, a cloud
computing, distributed computing, or client-server computing
technology may be used, for example.
[0158] The electronic device according to certain embodiments may
be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic
devices may include, for example, a portable communication device
(e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia
device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or
a home appliance. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the
electronic devices are not limited to those described above.
[0159] It should be appreciated that certain embodiments of the
present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to
limit the technological features set forth herein to particular
embodiments and include various changes, equivalents, or
replacements for a corresponding embodiment. With regard to the
description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used
to refer to similar or related elements. It is to be understood
that a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include
one or more of the things, unless the relevant context clearly
indicates otherwise. As used herein, each of such phrases as "A or
B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B, or
C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "at least one of A, B, or
C," may include any one of, or all possible combinations of the
items enumerated together in a corresponding one of the phrases. As
used herein, such terms as "1st" and "2nd," or "first" and "second"
may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from
another, and does not limit the components in other aspect (e.g.,
importance or order). It is to be understood that if an element
(e.g., a first element) is referred to, with or without the term
"operatively" or "communicatively", as "coupled with," "coupled
to," "connected with," or "connected to" another element (e.g., a
second element), it means that the element may be coupled with the
other element directly (e.g., wiredly), wirelessly, or via a third
element.
[0160] As used herein, the term "module" may include a unit
implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may
interchangeably be used with other terms, for example, "logic,"
"logic block," "part," or "circuitry". A module may be a single
integral component, or a minimum unit or part thereof, adapted to
perform one or more functions. For example, according to an
embodiment, the module may be implemented in a form of an
application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).
[0161] Certain embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented
as software (e.g., the program 1040) including one or more
instructions that are stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal
memory 1036 or external memory 1038) that is readable by a machine
(e.g., the electronic device 1001). For example, a processor (e.g.,
the processor 1020) of the machine (e.g., the electronic device
1001) may invoke at least one of the one or more instructions
stored in the storage medium, and execute it, with or without using
one or more other components under the control of the processor.
This allows the machine to be operated to perform at least one
function according to the at least one instruction invoked. The one
or more instructions may include a code generated by a compiler or
a code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage
medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage
medium. Wherein, the term "non-transitory" simply means that the
storage medium is a tangible device, and does not include a signal
(e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not
differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the
storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the
storage medium.
[0162] According to an embodiment, a method according to certain
embodiments of the disclosure may be included and provided in a
computer program product. The computer program product may be
traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer
program product may be distributed in the form of a
machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only
memory (CD-ROM)), or be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded)
online via an application store (e.g., PlayStore.TM.), or between
two user devices (e.g., smart phones) directly. If distributed
online, at least part of the computer program product may be
temporarily generated or at least temporarily stored in the
machine-readable storage medium, such as memory of the
manufacturer's server, a server of the application store, or a
relay server.
[0163] According to certain embodiments, each component (e.g., a
module or a program) of the above-described components may include
a single entity or multiple entities. According to certain
embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be
omitted, or one or more other components may be added.
Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g.,
modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In
such a case, according to certain embodiments, the integrated
component may still perform one or more functions of each of the
plurality of components in the same or similar manner as they are
performed by a corresponding one of the plurality of components
before the integration. According to certain embodiments,
operations performed by the module, the program, or another
component may be carried out sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly,
or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed
in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations
may be added.
[0164] According to the embodiments, the disclosure may facilitate
the use of an application in an electronic device, by obtaining
information stored in an external electronic device or simply
obtaining information to be entered into the electronic device by
using an input device of the external electronic device.
[0165] In addition, the disclosure may provide various effects that
are directly or indirectly recognized.
[0166] While the disclosure has been shown and described with
reference to certain embodiments thereof, it will be understood by
those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details
may be made therein without departing from the disclosure as
defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
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